Wind Symphony

‌The Drake University Wind Symphony continues the proud tradition of excellence of the Drake Bands. Drake’s premier wind band is comprised of the finest wind and percussion students at Drake and dedicated to performing the highest quality literature for band ranging from chamber wind works to contemporary band repertoire.

Since its inception in 1998, the Wind Symphony has quickly developed a national reputation for musical excellence. The ensemble has given invited performances for the North Central Division of the College Band Director’s National Association, North American Saxophone Alliance, Iowa Bandmasters Association, South Central Iowa Bandmasters Association, Southeast Iowa Bandmasters Association and toured extensively throughout the Midwest.

It has released four compact discs, including Angels and Demons (2001), Homage (2003), and Impressions (2005) through Mark Records. These have received accolades from composers and critics including Band World’s Ira Novoselsky, who cited Angels and Demons as: "…an excellent and imaginative recording that will definitely hold your interest.” Both Homage and Impressions have been honored by inclusion on the Mark Records Master Recording Series, an honor bestowed only upon recordings of the highest quality. Recordings by the Wind Symphony have received high praise from noted band composers including Jan Van der Roost, Joseph Spaniola, Roger Cichy, Timothy Mahr and Barry Kopetz. The Wind Symphony has also produced promotional recordings for both Daehn Publications and C. Alan Publications. Concerts by the Wind Symphony are aired regularly as a part of WOI Radio’s University Concert Series.

Auditions for all Drake wind bands are held within the first month of the fall semester.